How Long Is a Giraffe's Tongue?

Adult giraffes have tongues that are 18 to 20 inches (45 to 50 cm) in length. The length of the tongue makes it possible for giraffes to feast on a wide range of leaves and other types of shoots. A giraffe’s tongue also makes it easier for the animal to work around the thorns that are found on one if its primary sources of nutrition, the acacia. Thanks to the dexterity of the tongue, it’s easier to move the leaves away from the thorns and enjoy the meal.

More facts about giraffes:

  • The color of a giraffe’s tongue usually is described as black or purple. Although the front section of the tongue is darker, the section near the throat is more of a pink hue. The general consensus is that the major portion of the tongue is a darker color as a means of minimizing sunburn as the giraffe feeds. Another idea is that the greater section of the tongue is equipped with thickened papillae that help prevent damage during feedings.

  • An adult male giraffe can weigh as much as an average pickup truck. It is not unusual for the male to reach a weight of 3,086 pounds (almost 1,400 kg).

  • The best time to attack a giraffe is while the animal is drinking. During this period, the giraffe is not able to look from side to side and see an approaching predator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is a giraffe's tongue?

A giraffe's tongue is impressively long, typically measuring between 18 to 20 inches (45 to 50 centimeters). This length allows them to skillfully grasp and strip leaves from branches, navigating around sharp thorns in their native habitats of African savannas.

Why do giraffes have such long tongues?

Giraffes have evolved long tongues as an adaptation to their environment. The extended length helps them reach and eat leaves from tall trees, particularly acacia species, which are a staple in their diet. Their tongues are also prehensile, which means they can wrap around and pull leaves into their mouths.

What color is a giraffe's tongue, and why?

A giraffe's tongue is a dark color, ranging from blue to black. This pigmentation is thought to provide protection against sunburn, as giraffes spend a significant amount of time feeding with their tongues exposed to the harsh African sun.

Is the giraffe's tongue rough or smooth?

The giraffe's tongue is rough in texture, which is beneficial for stripping leaves from branches. The roughness comes from papillae, which are small, hair-like projections that help protect the tongue from injury by thorns present on the trees they feed from.

Can giraffes use their tongues for anything other than eating?

Yes, giraffes use their tongues for several tasks beyond eating. They can use their tongues to clean their own nostrils and to groom themselves. The dexterity of their tongues also allows them to manipulate objects and explore their environment.

How does the length of a giraffe's tongue compare to other animals?

When compared to other animals, a giraffe's tongue is exceptionally long. For instance, humans have an average tongue length of about 3.3 inches (8.5 centimeters), making the giraffe's tongue about five to six times longer. This extraordinary length is unmatched by most other land mammals.

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